Literary notes about vocalize (AI summary)
Literary uses of “vocalize” range from the literal to the metaphorical. In some contexts it refers to the physical act of producing sound—as when a tenor must vocalize with precise control to create resonant chest-tones [1, 2] or a musician arranges a theme by vocalizing the first bars of an overture [3, 4]. In other settings, the term extends to a more figurative expression of inner emotions or thoughts, capturing the way one might sub-vocalize surface thoughts or convey approval without words [5, 6]. There are even creative instances where inanimate elements are given voice, such as describing lancet windows as if they could vocalize the wind [7]. This varied usage not only underscores the technical aspects of sound production but also enriches character expression and atmosphere in literary works [8, 9].
- For a tenor to phrase agreeably, vocalize skilfully, giving us resonant chest-tones, no longer suffices to gain for him the title of great singer.
— from Delsarte System of Oratory by Delaumosne - VOCALIZES Another student—with a fine tenor—was asked to vocalize for a number of minutes.
— from Vocal Mastery Talks with Master Singers and Teachers, Comprising Interviews with Caruso, Farrar, Maurel, Lehmann, and Others by Harriette Brower - I replied that I had arranged Chopin's waltz in five flats as a vocalize.
— from In the Courts of Memory, 1858-1875; from Contemporary Letters by L. de (Lillie de) Hegermann-Lindencrone - LEARNING A RÔLE "In taking up a new part I vocalize the theme first, to get an idea of the music; then I learn the words.
— from Vocal Mastery Talks with Master Singers and Teachers, Comprising Interviews with Caruso, Farrar, Maurel, Lehmann, and Others by Harriette Brower - Most people sub-vocalize their surface thoughts.
— from The Sensitive Man by Poul Anderson - Miss Eleanor did not need to vocalize her approval of Judson; the dark eyes were alight with excitement.
— from The Taming of Red Butte Western by Francis Lynde - Perhaps the smaller lancet windows may vocalize the wind.]
— from The Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 6 by Byron, George Gordon Byron, Baron - We have all heard voices that were so beautiful that to hear one of them vocalize for half an hour would be a musical feast.
— from The Head Voice and Other Problems: Practical Talks on Singing by D. A. (David Alva) Clippinger - "John loves to be caustic; he likes to vocalize his dyspepsia," the old man muttered.
— from The Auction Block by Rex Beach
